Central Ideas
What is the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence?
To explain why the colonies are separating from Britain.
Quote a line that shows Britain ignored colonial petitions.
“Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury.”
What does the Preamble introduce?
The reasons for declaring independence.
Which rhetorical appeal is used in “all men are created equal”?
Ethos (values/morality).
Which other U.S. document echoes the Declaration’s ideas?
The Constitution / Bill of Rights.
What central idea does Jefferson emphasize in the Preamble?
People have natural rights that cannot be taken away.
Which phrase shows Jefferson’s view of government’s role?
“To secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men.”
What is the purpose of the grievances section?
To list evidence of the King’s wrongdoings.
Which appeal is used when Jefferson describes British cruelty?
Pathos (emotion).
How does the Declaration connect to Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke?
It reflects Locke’s ideas of natural rights and government by consent.
What is the significance of the list of grievances?
It proves Britain violated the colonies’ rights and justifies independence.
What evidence shows colonists tried peaceful solutions first?
They petitioned the King and Parliament many times before declaring independence.
How does the conclusion serve the argument?
It officially declares independence and unites the colonies.
Which appeal is shown in the logical listing of grievances?
Logos (logic).
How is the Declaration similar to Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech?
Both argue for equality and rights using persuasive rhetoric.
Which phrase shows Jefferson’s belief in equality?
“All men are created equal.”
Which line proves Britain acted like a tyrant?
“A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.”
Why does Jefferson organize the Declaration into sections?
To clearly present the claim, evidence, and conclusion.
How does Jefferson use repetition for effect?
Repeats “He has…” to emphasize the King’s repeated abuses
How does the Declaration differ from Britain’s view of colonial government?
Britain saw colonies as subjects; Jefferson saw them as free and equal states.
How does Jefferson connect independence to universal principles?
He argues that natural rights and self-government apply to all people.
Find text evidence that independence is necessary for survival.
“These United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States.”
Which rhetorical structure does the text follow?
Claim → Evidence → Resolution (argumentative essay structure).
Which rhetorical device strengthens the call for unity?
Parallelism in “we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.”
How did the Declaration influence future independence movements worldwide?
It inspired other nations to fight for self-rule and human rights.